Will smoking pot affect our chances of getting pregnant?

It may. Some studies have shown that repeatedly consuming marijuana is associated with significantly lower concentrations of reproductive hormones in both men (testosterone) and women (dehydroepiandrosterone). Lower concentrations of testosterone may result in decreased sperm counts, and lower dehydroepiandrosterone may affect egg production.

There haven't been any rigorous, conclusive scientific studies proving for certain whether smoking marijuana affects fertility. But why take the risk?

Some studies suggest that smoking marijuana regularly during pregnancy puts a woman and her baby at higher risk for premature birth and low birth weight. And because smoking marijuana (or tobacco) increases carbon monoxide levels in the bloodstream, the baby gets less oxygen, which may affect his growth.

Other studies show that children exposed to marijuana during pregnancy have different brain activity and more disturbed sleeping patterns as toddlers. They may also have behavior problems, such as impulsiveness and attention deficits, but more studies are needed to know for sure.

Plus, marijuana isn't regulated for patients who are trying to conceive, so you never know what you're getting. It may be contaminated with other drugs or herbicides that could place your baby-to-be at even greater risk.

If you smoke pot, I suggest waiting a month or so after your last hit before trying to conceive. It'll take at least a month to get all traces of the drug out of your system.

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